It’s almost a quarter of the way into the 21st-century, and our technology is advancing rapidly. Yet, as is always the case, many times human inventions, creativity, and advancement in certain areas of life can lead to disaster. One such thing today is that of phones and screens at large. The mainstream news and media have finally caught up with the idea that overusing devices or certain apps is harmful to almost everyone, yet there is still much that the average person doesn't know about. This article seeks to provide information on phone addiction and also alternative activities and ideas for off-screen life.
Though it deems incredibly difficult for most people (myself included), getting off one's phone is more crucial at this point in our lives than it has been before. It is not solely Gen-Z or younger kids addicted to their phones, games, shows, etc. This is a raging issue that is relevant for close to the entire population, and it doesn’t get the attention it needs. Though the examples in this article might seem obvious, they are oftentimes overlooked or far from what many would consider appealing or entertaining. However, it is important to engage in other activities that may seem appalling in the moment but one will benefit from long-term. So let’s get into some ways one can click off of Instagram, YouTube, or the binge-calling show.
One easy and accessible option is to simply get outside. Even if it’s for a short time, going for a walk, run, bike ride or some other activity outside is extremely beneficial for overall physical, emotional and mental health. People spend so much time watching things about other people’s lives these days that the world of the phone can become a world of its own. Instead of improving our personal lives, we obsess over other people’s and get easily sucked into thinking we don’t match up. This tends to create a more negative attitude about ourselves and sometimes a lack of motivation; as so, one returns to their phone and the cycle then continues. Going outside gets one oriented to the real world, and even though the online world is real as well, it’s important to focus your eyes on something else, even if for a short time.
What’s another thing someone can do? How about reading or writing something? Starting a journal and writing once a day, or even reading for five minutes is still better than scrolling. Studies show that writing helps focus and that reading is beneficial for reducing stress. However it doesn’t take a genius to realize these things. Though the studies are helpful and certainly important, any rational person can find reason to partake in an activity like this instead of adding to their daily screen time. Sit down in the library and put your phone on the table, grab a book or piece of paper and practice taking a break from the constant rush of media, gaming, and content.
Another thing to consider is some sort of physical exercise. As mentioned before, getting outside is helpful but it isn’t the only place to get moving. Going to the gym or playing an indoor sport are both examples of this. This may seem intimidating for many, especially seeing influencers all over the world who seem perfectly in shape, happy and successful in every way. As humans we are very susceptible to the actions and involvement of others. Social media instigates more FOMO and anxiety for people. Yet instead of being discouraged or unmotivated, take a small step and do something that will help in the long run.
However, these are just some simple activities that most people partake in at least sometimes. Everyone has different lives and schedules, and finding the time to do these things can prove challenging. What are some ways one can come down momentarily from the busyness of everyday life?
Though there are many mainstream misinterpretations about meditation or mindfulness practices, these are actually very real and helpful techniques that are more popular than one might think. Many believe meditation is some strange practice that only monks participate in to clear the mind of all thoughts or achieve a state of complete unity and awareness with nature. Though this is partially true, the reality of these practices is very different. Meditation can be done by anybody any time and doesn’t require years of training or any training at all. The goal of meditation or other mindfulness practices is not to clear the mind of thoughts, but instead to let everything be as it is, without worrying about each and every thought. Or, as Jon Kabat-Zinn says, mindfulness is “awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.” Doing these practices at night can be even more beneficial, as it creates time away from the phone before sleeping, which devices can repeatedly get in the way of.
Going from a rapid intake of content online to a blissful state of acceptance is nearly impossible though. This is why being able to get off the phone - and stay off - is important. Engaging in other healthier activities will eventually lead to more interest and motivation in personal goals, as well as a healthier and more positive mindset for them. In addition it will also help to achieve less anxiety and depression, reduced stress, and even a renewed sense of creativity or interest in activities.
This all sounds pretty great, doesn't it? We all wish it was that easy to make it happen. Our phones are incredibly addicting, companies design them to be this way and we follow what we want in the short term. Doing work for school or jobs can be difficult as we are distracted by the constant notifications and desire for more fast-paced content. However, just as we fall into the trap of this distraction, we can also attempt to build habits that are better.
Thinking back again to the aforementioned prospect that we are on the brink of the quarter century mark, it occurred to me that the state of the world at large has brought about a deep sense of discouragement, fear and anxiety. Climate change, wars, political corruption, refugee crises, and poverty, just to name a few, are all enormous issues that continue to be causes for despair and frustration everyday. However, though these issues may be the reason so many people cease to act proactively, they are also a way to take into account the things that we can change in our own lives. When we begin activities that can easily lead us down a dark road, it simply gets harder to turn around. Things don’t usually get any better when we continually trash our lives just to enjoy short term pleasures. Starting with the simple task of putting down your phone, one step can lead to another and you can become a healthier and happier person.
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